miglitol Side Effects

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

breathing problems

changes in vision

unusual bleeding or bruising

unusually weak or tired

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

diarrhea

stomach gas, upset

weight loss

SECTION 3 of 5

miglitol May Interact with Other Medications

Oral tablet

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

gatifloxacin

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

charcoal

digestive enzymes like amylase, pancreatin, pancrelipase

digoxin

other medicines for diabetes

Disclaimer:
Our goal is to provide you with the most relevant and current information. However, because drugs interact differently in each person, we cannot guarantee that this information includes all possible interactions. This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Always speak with your healthcare provider about possible interactions with all prescription drugs, vitamins, herbs and supplements, and over-the-counter drugs that you are taking.

SECTION 4 of 5

How to Use miglitol

Oral tablet

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take this medicine at the start of a meal, with the first bite of food. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

If you develop severe vomiting or severe diarrhea that prevents you from eating meals, call your health care doctor for advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

diabetic ketoacidosis

kidney disease

stomach or bowel disease, or obstruction

an unusual or allergic reaction to miglitol, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

pregnant or trying to get pregnant

breast-feeding

What if I miss a dose?

If you forgot your dose at the start of your meal and you are still eating that meal, take your dose while you are still eating. Otherwise, skip the missed dose. This medicine is not effective if not taken during a meal. Wait for your next dose at your next main meal, and take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress.

A test called the HbA1C (A1C) will be monitored. This is a simple blood test. It measures your blood sugar control over the last 2 to 3 months. You will receive this test every 3 to 6 months.

Learn how to check your blood sugar. Learn the symptoms of low and high blood sugar and how to manage them.

Always carry a quick-source of sugar with you in case you have symptoms of low blood sugar. Examples include hard sugar candy or glucose tablets. Make sure others know that you can choke if you eat or drink when you develop serious symptoms of low blood sugar, such as seizures or unconsciousness. They must get medical help at once.

Tell your doctor or health care professional if you have high blood sugar. You might need to change the dose of your medicine. If you are sick or exercising more than usual, you might need to change the dose of your medicine.

Do not skip meals. Ask your doctor or health care professional if you should avoid alcohol. Many nonprescription cough and cold products contain sugar or alcohol. These can affect blood sugar.

It is important to follow a diabetic diet when taking this medicine. This may help decrease some of the side effects like diarrhea, bloating, and gas. If you are following the diet and you still have severe diarrhea or gas, contact your health care professional.

Wear a medical ID bracelet or chain, and carry a card that describes your disease and details of your medicine and dosage times.

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Last Updated: April 2, 2014

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